Bursary Programme
Building a brighter future since 2016
Nelson Mandela once said, “The power of education extends beyond the development of skills we need for economic success. It can contribute to nation-building and reconciliation.” This is the essence of what education represents: a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation.
Launched in 2016, the PPS Foundation Bursary Programme is a key initiative of the PPS Foundation. PPS’s ethos of “success is better, shared” permeates this initiative, providing opportunities for the next generation of economically empowered professionals."
The programme is designed to support full-time university students who are pursuing degrees in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). These fields are critical for the development of an innovative and competitive South African economy. By focusing on STEM disciplines, the PPS Foundation is not just opening doors for individual students but also contributing to the broader national agenda of a knowledge economy and skilled workforce.
One of the features of the programme is its comprehensiveness. The bursary covers tuition fees, textbooks, meals and accommodation, ensuring that beneficiaries can fully focus on their studies without the distraction of financial worries. Moreover, the programme offers ongoing guidance and monitoring, helping students navigate their academic journeys and achieve their full potential.
The impact of this programme is significant. Each year, the PPS Foundation funds between 50 to 70 bursary recipients, carefully selecting beneficiaries based on financial need and academic merit. These recipients represent a wide array of qualifications, from veterinary science and psychology to physics, biotechnology, and medical studies. This diversity reflects the PPS Foundation’s commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of STEM fields, thereby addressing various critical areas of need within the country.
A distinctive aspect of the PPS Foundation Bursary Programme is its focus on the “missing middle” – students from households with an income between R350 000 and R1 000 000. This group often falls through the cracks, being neither wealthy enough to afford tertiary education comfortably nor poor enough to qualify for substantial government aid. By prioritising these students, the PPS Foundation ensures that deserving individuals who might otherwise be overlooked get the support they need to succeed.
PPS itself is a dynamic and youthful organisation, with 44% of its staff younger than 35. This youthful energy brings fresh thinking and innovative problem-solving approaches to the table, further enhancing the effectiveness and impact of the PPS Foundation’s initiatives.
The programme is more than just a financial aid initiative; it is a vital part of South Africa’s nation-building efforts. By investing in the education of young South Africans, the PPS Foundation is helping to cultivate a future generation of leaders, innovators and professionals who will drive the country forward. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world”, and the PPS Foundation is wielding it with purpose.
19 qualified professionals enter the economy
In 2023, the PPS Foundation awarded 70 bursaries to deserving students, covering tuition, accommodation, books and stipends. This support led to the successful graduation of 19 students, who are now ready to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. Their achievements highlight the transformative power of education and the impact of the Foundation’s commitment.
Looking ahead, the PPS Foundation will continue to champion education, nurturing future leaders across various fields. The goal is to keep empowering students and supporting their educational journeys, ultimately fostering positive change on local, national and global levels. By investing in the next generation, the Foundation ensures that its impact will resonate for years to come, creating a cycle of opportunity and growth.
My gratitude towards the PPS Foundation is immense.
Mohamed Amir Khan
Navigating Challenges and Finding Support: Mohamed’s Journey with the PPS Foundation
Mohamed Amir Khan, a current honours student in information technology (IT) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), has faced significant challenges on his academic path. His story is one of resilience and adaptation, shaped by both personal circumstances and support of the PPS Foundation.
In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to Mohamed's family when his father lost his job due to the economic downturn. This unexpected turn of events significantly impacted their financial stability, jeopardising his dream of attending university. With his mother turned into the primary breadwinner, the financial strain on the household was immense. The prospect of continuing his studies seemed increasingly difficult.
However, the tide began to turn in 2022 when Mohamed was awarded a bursary from the PPS Foundation for his undergraduate studies in IT. Beyond tuition fees, this bursary opened doors to essential support services. It covered textbooks and provided a monthly stipend, easing the burden on his family.
The pandemic also brought unprecedented challenges to Mohamed’s learning experience. The shift from vibrant, interactive classrooms to remote learning was tough. The isolation and the sudden change in the learning environment posed significant obstacles. Yet, these challenges taught Mohamed resilience and adaptability — skills that continue to serve him well as he progresses into his honours’ year.
The PPS Foundation also offered Mohamed mentorship. Mohamed’s mentor provided career guidance and connected him with professionals in the field. These interactions enriched his academic experience and opened doors to new opportunities.
Moreover, the PPS Foundation provided sessions on crucial life skills, including managing finances and balancing academic responsibilities with social life. These sessions have equipped Mohamed with practical knowledge that extends beyond his studies and into everyday life.
“My gratitude towards the PPS Foundation is immense. Without their support, the financial strain on my family would have been overwhelming, potentially derailing my educational aspirations and leaving me with debt – a fate shared by many young graduates,” says Mohamed.
Grateful for the PPS Foundation’s support, Mohamed now seeks to give back through the PPS alumni network. He envisions contributing his time and resources to help others achieve their academic and professional goals, emulating the assistance he received.
Mohamed’s journey demonstrates the impact of targeted support and mentorship, emphasising the role the PPS Foundation plays in transforming lives.
https://www.pps.co.za/2023/foundation-annual-report/bursary-programme